Rock Island, IL: Learn about the role of Davenport's Credit Island in local and national history, and its recent rejuvenation, with a free history presentation at 6:00 pm on Thursday, May 14 at the Rock Island Main Library, 401 19th Street,. Rock Island.
Davenport Parks and Recreation Director Scott Hock will discuss the history of one of Davenport's oldest and most iconic public spaces, including its recognition as an official War of 1812 battleground site and the rebuilding of the historic 1923 Credit Island Lodge.
In the past year, the City of Davenport dedicated both the new lodge and a monument to recognize the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Credit Island. One of very few battles on the Upper Mississippi, the Credit Island conflict marked one of the last (and unsuccessful) efforts by the Americans to wrest control of the Upper Mississippi from the British. It's also significant for the heavy involvement of the 800 to 1,200 Native Americans, including Black Hawk, who fought alongside a handful of British soldiers. The British side far out-numbered the 334 Americans led by future president Zachary Taylor.
Hock will discuss more about the battle's significance and its affect on British/Native American relations, as well as talking about the more recent history of the Credit Island Lodge. The Lodge was built in 1923 and almost completely destroyed by flood and fire in May 2013. Hock will talk about the rebuilding and rejuvenation project, which was funded with about $1.5 million in insurance money. Hock will be joined by Nate Brown, president of the Friends of Credit Island, who will also discuss the role of his group in supporting improvements to the park.
The program is free and open to the public. For more information about Rock Island Library services and programs, visit the library's online branch at www.rockislandlibrary.org, call 309-732-READ or follow the library on Facebook or Twitter.
(end)
Founded in 1872, the Rock Island Public Library provides resources to enhance personal achievement and stimulate through the Main, 30/31 and Southwest Branches, community outreach efforts, and online opportunities.
